Changing the Lens: Assessing Autism Through a Neuro Strengths-Based Perspective

Course Number: ABIO2614

When: Recorded playback is available between June 24, 2026 – June 24, 2031.

Where: Available under “Course Content” at the bottom of this page.

Description: In this course, participants address the challenge of deficit-based autism assessments that limit meaningful outcomes for autistic children and teens. Participants define neuro strengths-based assessment, identify key differences from traditional autism evaluation practices, and describe how this approach improves goal development and motivation in practice for autistic individuals.

Who This Course Is Good For:

ASHA members, CCC holders, licensed Speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and SLPAs working in school-based or pediatric settings
School-based clinicians navigating evaluations, IEPs, and goal writing
Professionals who feel limited by deficit-based assessment models
Clinicians interested in neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based practices
Providers looking to increase student motivation, engagement, and meaningful outcomes

Who This Course Isn’t Good For:

Professionals not currently practicing or planning to practice in speech-language pathology or related clinical fields
Professionals looking for strictly medical or diagnostic-focused content without a clinical application lens
Individuals expecting compliance-based or behavior-reduction-focused strategies

Presenters:

Venita Litvack, M.A, CCC-SLP (SHE/HER)

Venita is an Assistive Technology (AT) Consultant in south Florida. She has a passion for using AAC, AT, and literacy to support individuals with complex communication needs, autism, and other disabilities. Venita has delivered poster presentations on several topics related to AAC at ASHA and co-presented several ASHA CEU-accredited courses. Venita co-authored two articles published in ASHA Leader’s online publication, as well as the Lou Knows What to Do book series published by Boys Town Press. Recently, Venita started utilizing the power of social media to empower and motivate educators across the country through the Speechie Side Up podcast, blog, Instagram account, and YouTube channel.

Staci Neustadt, M.S. CCC-SLP(SHE/HER)

Staci Neustadt, MS, CCC SLP, is a speech-language pathologist and CEO of Making Sense of Autism. She specializes in neuro-affirming, neuro-strengths-based assessment and support for autistic individuals. She collaborates with autistic professionals, including Susan Golubock, an autistic retired occupational therapist and founder. She trains therapists, educators, and parents to move away from compliance-based and deficit-focused practices. Her work centers on reinterpreting assessments to develop meaningful goals, humane supports, and improved outcomes for autistic individuals.

Disclosure Statements

Venita Litvack has the following relevant relationships to disclose: ownership interest in Speechie Side Up, LLC and Tassel Learning, LLC; royalties from the Lou Knows What to Do book series. Venita is a member of the ASHA Special Interest Group 12.

Staci Neustadt has the following relevant relationships to disclose: CEO of Making Sense of Autism, receives royalties from her virtual trainings, and will receive an honorarium for participation in this podcourse.

Learning Outcomes

As a result of this activity, participants will:

Define neuro strengths-based assessment and explain 2 ways that it differs from traditional deficit-based approaches used with autistic individuals.
Identify 2 key differences between a neuro-strengths-based assessment and conventional autism assessment practices.
Describe how a neuro-strengths-based assessment can change goal development and increase motivation for autistic children and teens.
Describe 2 practical mindset shifts or observations professionals can begin using immediately to move toward strengths-based practice.

Agenda

5 min	Introductions and Backgrounds
10 min	Defining a Neuro Strengths-Based Assessment
15 min	Key differences in the assessment process
10 min	Practical observations clinicians can begin using today
15 min	From Assessment to Goal Writing
5 min	References & Closing